SEMA News - July 2009

Law and Order

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

Connecticut

Property Taxes: A SEMA-supported bill has been introduced in the Connecticut State Legislature to provide an exemption from property taxes for antique, rare and special-interest vehicles. The bill is pending in the Joint Transportation Committee for consideration. Connecticut law defines an “antique, rare or special-interest motor vehicle” as a motor vehicle 20 years old or older that is being preserved because of historic interest and that is not altered or modified from the original manufacturer’s specifications.

Montana

Exhaust Noise: Montana legislation that sought to repeal a SEMA-sponsored law enacted in 2007 that permits vehicles with modified exhaust systems that do not emit an excess of 95 decibels died when the legislature adjourned for the year. Under the repeal legislation, Montana would have returned to subjective noise-level determinations when considering whether an exhaust system is legal.

North Carolina

Street Rods/Customs: The North Carolina House Transportation Committee passed a version of SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods, replicas and custom vehicles. The bill is the product of negotiations between SEMA and the hobbyist network in North Carolina and retains the key components of the SEMA-model bill while relieving vehicle owners of unfair title branding and inspection concerns. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured in or after 1949. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles intended to be replicated.

Scrappage: SEMA is opposing North Carolina legislation that would implement a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. A participant would receive around $1,000–$1,500 to scrap a car and purchase a current-year vehicle under 10,000 lbs. or one from the previous three model years. The participant’s family income must be less than 300% of the current federal poverty level. All trade-in vehicles could be destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. If this effort is successful, hobbyists could be denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House Environment and Water Committee approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor-vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger-car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon will include a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles.

Texas

Street Rods/Customs: SEMA-model legislation to create new vehicle registration and titling classifications for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles was approved by the Texas House Transportation Committee. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles they most closely resemble.

FEDERAL UPDATE

Vehicle Scrappage: Congress is finalizing “Cash for Clunkers” legislation that would pay consumers to scrap cars and trucks that get less than 18 miles per gallon in exchange for a cash voucher to buy a new car. This latest effort is the result of negotiations between the Obama administration and the congressional leadership. Under the proposed bill, consumers would receive either $3,500 or $4,500, depending on the fuel-economy improvement of the new vehicle. Lawmakers are attempting to direct new-car sales to automakers and dealerships. SEMA supports the concept of vouchers to help consumers purchase new, fuel-efficient cars but opposes connecting these incentives to vehicle scrappage requirements. SEMA is working with lawmakers to find ways to minimize the harm a motor-vehicle scrappage program will impose on thousands of independent repair shops, auto restorers, customizers and their customers across the country. SEMA will promote instead a government incentive program that will help clean the environment, provide for vehicle and parts recycling and preserve collector cars for future generations.

Roof Crush Rule: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strengthened the vehicle roof crush rule, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 216. The new standard will require manufacturers to design roofs that withstand at least three times the weight of a light-duty vehicle (up to 6,000 lbs.) during a two-sided roof strength test. The current standard, which had remained unchanged since 1971, requires the roof to support at least 1.5 times the vehicle weight when tested on one side only. The tests are conducted by pressing a metal plate down on the roof over the driver’s seat, then the passenger’s seat. The NHTSA will continue to rely on static tests rather than include a dynamic test to simulate a vehicle rollover. The requirements will be phased in over a four-year period between 2012 and 2016. The NHTSA estimates that compliance costs will range from $69–$114 per vehicle. The NHTSA responded to SEMA’s concern that the rule accommodates installation of aftermarket sunroofs and other products that interact with the roof.

The NHTSA noted that vehicles with sunroofs had been tested under the new requirements and passed, and that the agency did not foresee any problems with aftermarket installations.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a finding that high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions endanger the health and welfare of current and future generations of Americans. The decision comes nearly two years after the Supreme Court ruled that the EPA had the authority and duty to consider regulating CO2 emissions. The court’s intervention was sought since CO2 is a natural chemical rather than a traditional “pollutant” subject to EPA oversight under the Clean Air Act (CAA). The Obama administration would prefer that lawmakers pass a new law to define the best approach for regulating CO2 emissions rather than using the current CAA for enforcement. House and Senate committees are currently debating the issue, with the goal of enacting a new law this year. Topics under discussion include limiting regulatory oversight to the largest greenhouse gas contributors—power plants and oil refineries, large factories and automobiles—and potentially establishing a cap-and-trade system for CO2 emissions or a carbon tax. Lawmakers will also likely tie auto standards to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy program, since there is a direct relationship between reductions in carbon fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Small-Business Credit Relief: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has temporarily expanded the size requirements for SBA-backed 7(a) loans in order to help insert more liquidity into the marketplace. The SBA estimates that more than 70,000 small businesses across the country will be eligible for new loans between now and the time the program ends on September 30, 2010, including many auto-sector businesses. The temporary-loan size standard will allow businesses to qualify based on net worth and average income (rather than by the number of employees). The company’s net worth cannot exceed $8.5 million, and average net income after federal income taxes for the preceding two completed fiscal years cannot be more than $3 million.

SEMA News - July 2009

Law and Order

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

Connecticut

Property Taxes: A SEMA-supported bill has been introduced in the Connecticut State Legislature to provide an exemption from property taxes for antique, rare and special-interest vehicles. The bill is pending in the Joint Transportation Committee for consideration. Connecticut law defines an “antique, rare or special-interest motor vehicle” as a motor vehicle 20 years old or older that is being preserved because of historic interest and that is not altered or modified from the original manufacturer’s specifications.

Montana

Exhaust Noise: Montana legislation that sought to repeal a SEMA-sponsored law enacted in 2007 that permits vehicles with modified exhaust systems that do not emit an excess of 95 decibels died when the legislature adjourned for the year. Under the repeal legislation, Montana would have returned to subjective noise-level determinations when considering whether an exhaust system is legal.

North Carolina

Street Rods/Customs: The North Carolina House Transportation Committee passed a version of SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods, replicas and custom vehicles. The bill is the product of negotiations between SEMA and the hobbyist network in North Carolina and retains the key components of the SEMA-model bill while relieving vehicle owners of unfair title branding and inspection concerns. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured in or after 1949. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles intended to be replicated.

Scrappage: SEMA is opposing North Carolina legislation that would implement a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. A participant would receive around $1,000–$1,500 to scrap a car and purchase a current-year vehicle under 10,000 lbs. or one from the previous three model years. The participant’s family income must be less than 300% of the current federal poverty level. All trade-in vehicles could be destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. If this effort is successful, hobbyists could be denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House Environment and Water Committee approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor-vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger-car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon will include a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles.

Texas

Street Rods/Customs: SEMA-model legislation to create new vehicle registration and titling classifications for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles was approved by the Texas House Transportation Committee. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles they most closely resemble.

FEDERAL UPDATE

Vehicle Scrappage: Congress is finalizing “Cash for Clunkers” legislation that would pay consumers to scrap cars and trucks that get less than 18 miles per gallon in exchange for a cash voucher to buy a new car. This latest effort is the result of negotiations between the Obama administration and the congressional leadership. Under the proposed bill, consumers would receive either $3,500 or $4,500, depending on the fuel-economy improvement of the new vehicle. Lawmakers are attempting to direct new-car sales to automakers and dealerships. SEMA supports the concept of vouchers to help consumers purchase new, fuel-efficient cars but opposes connecting these incentives to vehicle scrappage requirements. SEMA is working with lawmakers to find ways to minimize the harm a motor-vehicle scrappage program will impose on thousands of independent repair shops, auto restorers, customizers and their customers across the country. SEMA will promote instead a government incentive program that will help clean the environment, provide for vehicle and parts recycling and preserve collector cars for future generations.

Roof Crush Rule: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strengthened the vehicle roof crush rule, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 216. The new standard will require manufacturers to design roofs that withstand at least three times the weight of a light-duty vehicle (up to 6,000 lbs.) during a two-sided roof strength test. The current standard, which had remained unchanged since 1971, requires the roof to support at least 1.5 times the vehicle weight when tested on one side only. The tests are conducted by pressing a metal plate down on the roof over the driver’s seat, then the passenger’s seat. The NHTSA will continue to rely on static tests rather than include a dynamic test to simulate a vehicle rollover. The requirements will be phased in over a four-year period between 2012 and 2016. The NHTSA estimates that compliance costs will range from $69–$114 per vehicle. The NHTSA responded to SEMA’s concern that the rule accommodates installation of aftermarket sunroofs and other products that interact with the roof.

The NHTSA noted that vehicles with sunroofs had been tested under the new requirements and passed, and that the agency did not foresee any problems with aftermarket installations.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a finding that high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions endanger the health and welfare of current and future generations of Americans. The decision comes nearly two years after the Supreme Court ruled that the EPA had the authority and duty to consider regulating CO2 emissions. The court’s intervention was sought since CO2 is a natural chemical rather than a traditional “pollutant” subject to EPA oversight under the Clean Air Act (CAA). The Obama administration would prefer that lawmakers pass a new law to define the best approach for regulating CO2 emissions rather than using the current CAA for enforcement. House and Senate committees are currently debating the issue, with the goal of enacting a new law this year. Topics under discussion include limiting regulatory oversight to the largest greenhouse gas contributors—power plants and oil refineries, large factories and automobiles—and potentially establishing a cap-and-trade system for CO2 emissions or a carbon tax. Lawmakers will also likely tie auto standards to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy program, since there is a direct relationship between reductions in carbon fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Small-Business Credit Relief: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has temporarily expanded the size requirements for SBA-backed 7(a) loans in order to help insert more liquidity into the marketplace. The SBA estimates that more than 70,000 small businesses across the country will be eligible for new loans between now and the time the program ends on September 30, 2010, including many auto-sector businesses. The temporary-loan size standard will allow businesses to qualify based on net worth and average income (rather than by the number of employees). The company’s net worth cannot exceed $8.5 million, and average net income after federal income taxes for the preceding two completed fiscal years cannot be more than $3 million.

SEMA News - July 2009

Law and Order

Law and Order is an update of some of the most recent federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that could potentially impact the automotive specialty-equipment industry. These include issues affecting small-business owners and their employees.

Connecticut

Property Taxes: A SEMA-supported bill has been introduced in the Connecticut State Legislature to provide an exemption from property taxes for antique, rare and special-interest vehicles. The bill is pending in the Joint Transportation Committee for consideration. Connecticut law defines an “antique, rare or special-interest motor vehicle” as a motor vehicle 20 years old or older that is being preserved because of historic interest and that is not altered or modified from the original manufacturer’s specifications.

Montana

Exhaust Noise: Montana legislation that sought to repeal a SEMA-sponsored law enacted in 2007 that permits vehicles with modified exhaust systems that do not emit an excess of 95 decibels died when the legislature adjourned for the year. Under the repeal legislation, Montana would have returned to subjective noise-level determinations when considering whether an exhaust system is legal.

North Carolina

Street Rods/Customs: The North Carolina House Transportation Committee passed a version of SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods, replicas and custom vehicles. The bill is the product of negotiations between SEMA and the hobbyist network in North Carolina and retains the key components of the SEMA-model bill while relieving vehicle owners of unfair title branding and inspection concerns. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured in or after 1949. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles intended to be replicated.

Scrappage: SEMA is opposing North Carolina legislation that would implement a state vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles that are at least 14 years old. A participant would receive around $1,000–$1,500 to scrap a car and purchase a current-year vehicle under 10,000 lbs. or one from the previous three model years. The participant’s family income must be less than 300% of the current federal poverty level. All trade-in vehicles could be destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest. If this effort is successful, hobbyists could be denied the availability of vintage cars and parts for restoration projects.

Oregon

Aftermarket Parts: The Oregon House Environment and Water Committee approved an alternative to legislation that originally sought to prohibit the sale and distribution of aftermarket motor-vehicle parts if alternatives are available that “decrease greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.” Under the alternative, negotiated between SEMA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the bill would only give the department authority to adopt the present California certification process for aftermarket emissions-related parts, allowing parts manufacturers to meet one uniform standard rather than a patchwork of multiple state standards. The amended legislation will also incorporate a California law that requires state regulators to develop a tire fuel-efficiency program for passenger-car and light-truck replacement tires. As in California, Oregon will include a SEMA-drafted provision to exempt limited-production tires (15,000 or less annually), deep-tread snow tires, limited-use spares, motorcycle tires and tires manufactured for use on off-road vehicles.

Texas

Street Rods/Customs: SEMA-model legislation to create new vehicle registration and titling classifications for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles was approved by the Texas House Transportation Committee. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The measure also allows replica vehicles to be assigned certificates of title bearing the same model-year designations as the production vehicles they most closely resemble.

FEDERAL UPDATE

Vehicle Scrappage: Congress is finalizing “Cash for Clunkers” legislation that would pay consumers to scrap cars and trucks that get less than 18 miles per gallon in exchange for a cash voucher to buy a new car. This latest effort is the result of negotiations between the Obama administration and the congressional leadership. Under the proposed bill, consumers would receive either $3,500 or $4,500, depending on the fuel-economy improvement of the new vehicle. Lawmakers are attempting to direct new-car sales to automakers and dealerships. SEMA supports the concept of vouchers to help consumers purchase new, fuel-efficient cars but opposes connecting these incentives to vehicle scrappage requirements. SEMA is working with lawmakers to find ways to minimize the harm a motor-vehicle scrappage program will impose on thousands of independent repair shops, auto restorers, customizers and their customers across the country. SEMA will promote instead a government incentive program that will help clean the environment, provide for vehicle and parts recycling and preserve collector cars for future generations.

Roof Crush Rule: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strengthened the vehicle roof crush rule, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 216. The new standard will require manufacturers to design roofs that withstand at least three times the weight of a light-duty vehicle (up to 6,000 lbs.) during a two-sided roof strength test. The current standard, which had remained unchanged since 1971, requires the roof to support at least 1.5 times the vehicle weight when tested on one side only. The tests are conducted by pressing a metal plate down on the roof over the driver’s seat, then the passenger’s seat. The NHTSA will continue to rely on static tests rather than include a dynamic test to simulate a vehicle rollover. The requirements will be phased in over a four-year period between 2012 and 2016. The NHTSA estimates that compliance costs will range from $69–$114 per vehicle. The NHTSA responded to SEMA’s concern that the rule accommodates installation of aftermarket sunroofs and other products that interact with the roof.

The NHTSA noted that vehicles with sunroofs had been tested under the new requirements and passed, and that the agency did not foresee any problems with aftermarket installations.

Greenhouse Gases: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a finding that high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions endanger the health and welfare of current and future generations of Americans. The decision comes nearly two years after the Supreme Court ruled that the EPA had the authority and duty to consider regulating CO2 emissions. The court’s intervention was sought since CO2 is a natural chemical rather than a traditional “pollutant” subject to EPA oversight under the Clean Air Act (CAA). The Obama administration would prefer that lawmakers pass a new law to define the best approach for regulating CO2 emissions rather than using the current CAA for enforcement. House and Senate committees are currently debating the issue, with the goal of enacting a new law this year. Topics under discussion include limiting regulatory oversight to the largest greenhouse gas contributors—power plants and oil refineries, large factories and automobiles—and potentially establishing a cap-and-trade system for CO2 emissions or a carbon tax. Lawmakers will also likely tie auto standards to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy program, since there is a direct relationship between reductions in carbon fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Small-Business Credit Relief: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has temporarily expanded the size requirements for SBA-backed 7(a) loans in order to help insert more liquidity into the marketplace. The SBA estimates that more than 70,000 small businesses across the country will be eligible for new loans between now and the time the program ends on September 30, 2010, including many auto-sector businesses. The temporary-loan size standard will allow businesses to qualify based on net worth and average income (rather than by the number of employees). The company’s net worth cannot exceed $8.5 million, and average net income after federal income taxes for the preceding two completed fiscal years cannot be more than $3 million.

SEMA News - July 2009
SPY PHOTOS

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Rolls-Royce Ghost When It Hits: This so-called “baby” Rolls-Royce is expected to enter the market in 2010 and will be priced between 200,000–300,000 euros. What Priddy Says: Designers will likely stick with the chiseled looks of the larger Phantom sedan. Engineers will use parts from BMW’s long-wheelbase 7 Series, but will utilize a powerplant that’s uniquely Rolls-Royce.
BMW 3 Series Coupe When It Hits: The new BMW 3 Series coupe should go on sale in the second half of 2010. What Priddy Says: Just a minor refreshing is expected. Fake body panels painted to match the car are covering large portions of the lower fascia; expect new styling in that area. Only minor revisions are expected for the interior.
Porsche 911 When It Hits: Priddy’s spy shooter network caught the 2011 Porsche 911 cabriolet (dubbed the “998” internally, Priddy says) turning laps at the Nürburgring. Priddy says that some early media reports pegged this as the next 911 Turbo, but these pictures suggest otherwise. What Priddy Says: The next-generation Porsche 911 will feature the same flat-six engine as its predecessor—with a likely power surge—as well as the new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Dodge ACR Viper When It Hits: Dodge will officially reveal the 2010 Viper color palette in June. What Priddy Says: Although reaching the end of its production life, the Viper will go out as a classic that will thrive in stock and modified forms. The 2010 model year shown here will feature at least one new color for the ACR version.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - July 2009
SPY PHOTOS

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Rolls-Royce Ghost When It Hits: This so-called “baby” Rolls-Royce is expected to enter the market in 2010 and will be priced between 200,000–300,000 euros. What Priddy Says: Designers will likely stick with the chiseled looks of the larger Phantom sedan. Engineers will use parts from BMW’s long-wheelbase 7 Series, but will utilize a powerplant that’s uniquely Rolls-Royce.
BMW 3 Series Coupe When It Hits: The new BMW 3 Series coupe should go on sale in the second half of 2010. What Priddy Says: Just a minor refreshing is expected. Fake body panels painted to match the car are covering large portions of the lower fascia; expect new styling in that area. Only minor revisions are expected for the interior.
Porsche 911 When It Hits: Priddy’s spy shooter network caught the 2011 Porsche 911 cabriolet (dubbed the “998” internally, Priddy says) turning laps at the Nürburgring. Priddy says that some early media reports pegged this as the next 911 Turbo, but these pictures suggest otherwise. What Priddy Says: The next-generation Porsche 911 will feature the same flat-six engine as its predecessor—with a likely power surge—as well as the new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Dodge ACR Viper When It Hits: Dodge will officially reveal the 2010 Viper color palette in June. What Priddy Says: Although reaching the end of its production life, the Viper will go out as a classic that will thrive in stock and modified forms. The 2010 model year shown here will feature at least one new color for the ACR version.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - July 2009
SPY PHOTOS

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Rolls-Royce Ghost When It Hits: This so-called “baby” Rolls-Royce is expected to enter the market in 2010 and will be priced between 200,000–300,000 euros. What Priddy Says: Designers will likely stick with the chiseled looks of the larger Phantom sedan. Engineers will use parts from BMW’s long-wheelbase 7 Series, but will utilize a powerplant that’s uniquely Rolls-Royce.
BMW 3 Series Coupe When It Hits: The new BMW 3 Series coupe should go on sale in the second half of 2010. What Priddy Says: Just a minor refreshing is expected. Fake body panels painted to match the car are covering large portions of the lower fascia; expect new styling in that area. Only minor revisions are expected for the interior.
Porsche 911 When It Hits: Priddy’s spy shooter network caught the 2011 Porsche 911 cabriolet (dubbed the “998” internally, Priddy says) turning laps at the Nürburgring. Priddy says that some early media reports pegged this as the next 911 Turbo, but these pictures suggest otherwise. What Priddy Says: The next-generation Porsche 911 will feature the same flat-six engine as its predecessor—with a likely power surge—as well as the new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Dodge ACR Viper When It Hits: Dodge will officially reveal the 2010 Viper color palette in June. What Priddy Says: Although reaching the end of its production life, the Viper will go out as a classic that will thrive in stock and modified forms. The 2010 model year shown here will feature at least one new color for the ACR version.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - July 2009
SPY PHOTOS

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Rolls-Royce Ghost When It Hits: This so-called “baby” Rolls-Royce is expected to enter the market in 2010 and will be priced between 200,000–300,000 euros. What Priddy Says: Designers will likely stick with the chiseled looks of the larger Phantom sedan. Engineers will use parts from BMW’s long-wheelbase 7 Series, but will utilize a powerplant that’s uniquely Rolls-Royce.
BMW 3 Series Coupe When It Hits: The new BMW 3 Series coupe should go on sale in the second half of 2010. What Priddy Says: Just a minor refreshing is expected. Fake body panels painted to match the car are covering large portions of the lower fascia; expect new styling in that area. Only minor revisions are expected for the interior.
Porsche 911 When It Hits: Priddy’s spy shooter network caught the 2011 Porsche 911 cabriolet (dubbed the “998” internally, Priddy says) turning laps at the Nürburgring. Priddy says that some early media reports pegged this as the next 911 Turbo, but these pictures suggest otherwise. What Priddy Says: The next-generation Porsche 911 will feature the same flat-six engine as its predecessor—with a likely power surge—as well as the new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Dodge ACR Viper When It Hits: Dodge will officially reveal the 2010 Viper color palette in June. What Priddy Says: Although reaching the end of its production life, the Viper will go out as a classic that will thrive in stock and modified forms. The 2010 model year shown here will feature at least one new color for the ACR version.

Photos Copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without the copyright holder’s consent is prohibited.

SEMA News - July 2009

	American Powertrain Tremec TKO Five-Speed Transmission Some engine and chassis combinations require an even stronger transmission than the stock TKO. Enter the TKOExtreme by American Powertrain—a fully synchronized 1,000hp-rated TKO with improved 2-3 shift selection. American Powertrain 931/646-4836 www.americanpowertrain.com
	Big Step Products Inc. The ProStep The ProStep offers an industrial-grade glossy rubber stepping surface with two nonslip tread designs. The patented high-visibility integrated LED brake-light assembly is sure to draw added attention and safety while driving at night or just cruising around town. Big Step Products Inc. 888/351-7837 www.theprostep.com
	Brake Performance Performance Rotors Brake Performance introduces its performance rotors, now available at factory-direct pricing. Rotors are now available for all auto, truck and SUV applications from ’37–’09. Performance brake rotors are available in three-styles: slotted and cross drilled; slotted; and dimpled drilled and slotted. Brake Performance 866/756-5536 www.brakeperformance.com
	Chassisworks gStreet Coil-Over Front Suspension System Unique to the gStreet setup is the integration of true coil-over, eye-style lower shock mounts that allow fitting of longer-travel shocks. Ease of installation and no-hassle compatibility issues are addressed as the control arms bolt directly to the OEM chassis mounts and stock or aftermarket dropped spindles, including the 2-inch dropped units shown here. Chassisworks 916/388-0297 www.cachassisworks.com
	Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction Old-School Six-Shooter Barry Grant is proud to introduce its Old-School Six-Shooter—a triple-two-barrel induction with a nostalgic appearance. Suitable for a wide range of engines, this nostalgic, triple-two-barrel induction package includes an advanced Triple-D intake manifold, three Demon carburetors finished in gold chromate with red fuel lines and a chrome fuel log, and three period-style Rush air cleaners. Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction 706/864-8544 www.barrygrant.com
	Century Truck Caps Cargo Cover—Now Available for 2009 F-150s and Dodge Rams Century Truck Caps, a division of the Truck Accessories Group LLC, announces the immediate availability of the 2009 cargo cover for the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram 1500 series. Standard features include a center-mounted automotive painted handle, rotary latches and reliable locking rods. Century Truck Caps 800/828-2277 www.centurycaps.com
	Cooper Bussmann Marine-Rated High-Amp Circuit Breaker Specifically designed to provide high circuit protection in the most demanding environments, both the new Cooper Bussmann marine-rated high-amp circuit breaker with a switch function and marine-rated battery fuse offer ignition protection per SAE J1117. These two new product lines have been added to the company’s existing line of high-power circuit protection products available to manufacturers of trucks, buses and off-road vehicles; boat owners; marinas; and boat manufacturers. Cooper Bussmann 636/527-3877 www.cooperbussmann.com
	Carriage Works Dodge Challenger Bolt-Over Billet Grille Carriage Works is proud to announce a bolt-over billet grille for the new Dodge Challenger. These grilles are available separately and install in 30 minutes or less using simple hand tools—a quick and easy way to change the look of this hot new musclecar. Carriage Works 816/966-1405 www.cwgrilles.com
	DiamondBack Truck Covers New Dealer-Direct Program DiamondBack Truck Covers, in order to provide lower costs and higher dealer margins, recently announced that it will begin shipping product directly to dealers nationwide. The change enables dealers to purchase products at a lower cost, ensures direct-from-manufacturer support and introduces new MAP pricing (providing higher margins). DiamondBack will also begin offering dealers the opportunity to join its new preferred dealer program. This new status will provide dealers with exclusive territories for online promotion and sales leads in addition to many benefits, such as direct marketing support. DiamondBack Truck Covers 800/935-4002 www.diamondbackcovers.com
	Lord Corp. Fusor Double-Sided OEM Tapes Lord Corp., maker of Fusor automotive repair adhesives, has announced its latest body shop special: the Lord Fusor double-sided OEM tapes promotional kit. While supplies last, the kit will be offered for $55.27, a 35% discount off the original price. Each kit contains one roll of the following: Fusor 160 (3-inch), Fusor 181 (1/2-inch) and Fusor 190 (1/2-inch). Lord Corp. 877/ASK-LORD www.lord.com/fusor
	MBRPinc. Five-Inch Stainless Performance Exhaust Systems MBRPinc. has now released its long awaited 5-inch stainless performance exhaust systems for Chevy/GMC, Ford and Dodge diesel pickups. Crafted from T409 stainless steel, these monster-size pipes deliver a deep and distinctive exhaust note and reduced EGTs (exhaust gas temperatures). MBRPinc. 888/636-7223 www.mbrp.com
	Original Equipment Reproduction Factory-Style GTA Alloy Wheels Original Equipment Reproduction’s (OER) new original 16x8-inch Firebird Diamond Spoke GTA wheels are now available. Each wheel features a machine-finished rim in either black or gold spokes, and OER keeps loyal to the original ’88–’92 factory-model wheels with a one-piece cast design. Available with zero offset or 16mm offset, each wheel comes prepackaged in an OER box. Original Equipment Reproduction (Distributed by Classic Industries) 714/847-6887 www.oerparts.com
	Predator Motor Corp. New Dealerships for X-18 Intimidator Predator Motor Corp. is pleased to announce the addition of two new dealerships for its X-18 Intimidator—an affordable, fully loaded pre-runner/sandrail/dune buggy/dual sport vehicle. For videos of the X-18 and more detailed information, plus all of the X-18 dealer locations, please visit our website. Predator Motor Corp. 951/259-3339 www.predator-offroad.com
	Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) HD Front Bumper System Rugged Ridge is proud to unveil the new XHD front bumper system for ’76–’09 Jeep CJ/Wranglers. According to the company, the unit is the most advanced, toughest, flexible bumper system ever created. The modular bumper base allows you to pick and choose components to build the exact bumper of your choice. The XHD bumper bases are available with an integrated winch mount or standard light mount, and each base includes foglight and D-ring mounting locations. Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) 770/614-6101 www.omix-ada.com

SEMA News - July 2009

	American Powertrain Tremec TKO Five-Speed Transmission Some engine and chassis combinations require an even stronger transmission than the stock TKO. Enter the TKOExtreme by American Powertrain—a fully synchronized 1,000hp-rated TKO with improved 2-3 shift selection. American Powertrain 931/646-4836 www.americanpowertrain.com
	Big Step Products Inc. The ProStep The ProStep offers an industrial-grade glossy rubber stepping surface with two nonslip tread designs. The patented high-visibility integrated LED brake-light assembly is sure to draw added attention and safety while driving at night or just cruising around town. Big Step Products Inc. 888/351-7837 www.theprostep.com
	Brake Performance Performance Rotors Brake Performance introduces its performance rotors, now available at factory-direct pricing. Rotors are now available for all auto, truck and SUV applications from ’37–’09. Performance brake rotors are available in three-styles: slotted and cross drilled; slotted; and dimpled drilled and slotted. Brake Performance 866/756-5536 www.brakeperformance.com
	Chassisworks gStreet Coil-Over Front Suspension System Unique to the gStreet setup is the integration of true coil-over, eye-style lower shock mounts that allow fitting of longer-travel shocks. Ease of installation and no-hassle compatibility issues are addressed as the control arms bolt directly to the OEM chassis mounts and stock or aftermarket dropped spindles, including the 2-inch dropped units shown here. Chassisworks 916/388-0297 www.cachassisworks.com
	Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction Old-School Six-Shooter Barry Grant is proud to introduce its Old-School Six-Shooter—a triple-two-barrel induction with a nostalgic appearance. Suitable for a wide range of engines, this nostalgic, triple-two-barrel induction package includes an advanced Triple-D intake manifold, three Demon carburetors finished in gold chromate with red fuel lines and a chrome fuel log, and three period-style Rush air cleaners. Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction 706/864-8544 www.barrygrant.com
	Century Truck Caps Cargo Cover—Now Available for 2009 F-150s and Dodge Rams Century Truck Caps, a division of the Truck Accessories Group LLC, announces the immediate availability of the 2009 cargo cover for the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram 1500 series. Standard features include a center-mounted automotive painted handle, rotary latches and reliable locking rods. Century Truck Caps 800/828-2277 www.centurycaps.com
	Cooper Bussmann Marine-Rated High-Amp Circuit Breaker Specifically designed to provide high circuit protection in the most demanding environments, both the new Cooper Bussmann marine-rated high-amp circuit breaker with a switch function and marine-rated battery fuse offer ignition protection per SAE J1117. These two new product lines have been added to the company’s existing line of high-power circuit protection products available to manufacturers of trucks, buses and off-road vehicles; boat owners; marinas; and boat manufacturers. Cooper Bussmann 636/527-3877 www.cooperbussmann.com
	Carriage Works Dodge Challenger Bolt-Over Billet Grille Carriage Works is proud to announce a bolt-over billet grille for the new Dodge Challenger. These grilles are available separately and install in 30 minutes or less using simple hand tools—a quick and easy way to change the look of this hot new musclecar. Carriage Works 816/966-1405 www.cwgrilles.com
	DiamondBack Truck Covers New Dealer-Direct Program DiamondBack Truck Covers, in order to provide lower costs and higher dealer margins, recently announced that it will begin shipping product directly to dealers nationwide. The change enables dealers to purchase products at a lower cost, ensures direct-from-manufacturer support and introduces new MAP pricing (providing higher margins). DiamondBack will also begin offering dealers the opportunity to join its new preferred dealer program. This new status will provide dealers with exclusive territories for online promotion and sales leads in addition to many benefits, such as direct marketing support. DiamondBack Truck Covers 800/935-4002 www.diamondbackcovers.com
	Lord Corp. Fusor Double-Sided OEM Tapes Lord Corp., maker of Fusor automotive repair adhesives, has announced its latest body shop special: the Lord Fusor double-sided OEM tapes promotional kit. While supplies last, the kit will be offered for $55.27, a 35% discount off the original price. Each kit contains one roll of the following: Fusor 160 (3-inch), Fusor 181 (1/2-inch) and Fusor 190 (1/2-inch). Lord Corp. 877/ASK-LORD www.lord.com/fusor
	MBRPinc. Five-Inch Stainless Performance Exhaust Systems MBRPinc. has now released its long awaited 5-inch stainless performance exhaust systems for Chevy/GMC, Ford and Dodge diesel pickups. Crafted from T409 stainless steel, these monster-size pipes deliver a deep and distinctive exhaust note and reduced EGTs (exhaust gas temperatures). MBRPinc. 888/636-7223 www.mbrp.com
	Original Equipment Reproduction Factory-Style GTA Alloy Wheels Original Equipment Reproduction’s (OER) new original 16x8-inch Firebird Diamond Spoke GTA wheels are now available. Each wheel features a machine-finished rim in either black or gold spokes, and OER keeps loyal to the original ’88–’92 factory-model wheels with a one-piece cast design. Available with zero offset or 16mm offset, each wheel comes prepackaged in an OER box. Original Equipment Reproduction (Distributed by Classic Industries) 714/847-6887 www.oerparts.com
	Predator Motor Corp. New Dealerships for X-18 Intimidator Predator Motor Corp. is pleased to announce the addition of two new dealerships for its X-18 Intimidator—an affordable, fully loaded pre-runner/sandrail/dune buggy/dual sport vehicle. For videos of the X-18 and more detailed information, plus all of the X-18 dealer locations, please visit our website. Predator Motor Corp. 951/259-3339 www.predator-offroad.com
	Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) HD Front Bumper System Rugged Ridge is proud to unveil the new XHD front bumper system for ’76–’09 Jeep CJ/Wranglers. According to the company, the unit is the most advanced, toughest, flexible bumper system ever created. The modular bumper base allows you to pick and choose components to build the exact bumper of your choice. The XHD bumper bases are available with an integrated winch mount or standard light mount, and each base includes foglight and D-ring mounting locations. Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) 770/614-6101 www.omix-ada.com

SEMA News - July 2009

	American Powertrain Tremec TKO Five-Speed Transmission Some engine and chassis combinations require an even stronger transmission than the stock TKO. Enter the TKOExtreme by American Powertrain—a fully synchronized 1,000hp-rated TKO with improved 2-3 shift selection. American Powertrain 931/646-4836 www.americanpowertrain.com
	Big Step Products Inc. The ProStep The ProStep offers an industrial-grade glossy rubber stepping surface with two nonslip tread designs. The patented high-visibility integrated LED brake-light assembly is sure to draw added attention and safety while driving at night or just cruising around town. Big Step Products Inc. 888/351-7837 www.theprostep.com
	Brake Performance Performance Rotors Brake Performance introduces its performance rotors, now available at factory-direct pricing. Rotors are now available for all auto, truck and SUV applications from ’37–’09. Performance brake rotors are available in three-styles: slotted and cross drilled; slotted; and dimpled drilled and slotted. Brake Performance 866/756-5536 www.brakeperformance.com
	Chassisworks gStreet Coil-Over Front Suspension System Unique to the gStreet setup is the integration of true coil-over, eye-style lower shock mounts that allow fitting of longer-travel shocks. Ease of installation and no-hassle compatibility issues are addressed as the control arms bolt directly to the OEM chassis mounts and stock or aftermarket dropped spindles, including the 2-inch dropped units shown here. Chassisworks 916/388-0297 www.cachassisworks.com
	Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction Old-School Six-Shooter Barry Grant is proud to introduce its Old-School Six-Shooter—a triple-two-barrel induction with a nostalgic appearance. Suitable for a wide range of engines, this nostalgic, triple-two-barrel induction package includes an advanced Triple-D intake manifold, three Demon carburetors finished in gold chromate with red fuel lines and a chrome fuel log, and three period-style Rush air cleaners. Barry Grant’s Triple-D Induction 706/864-8544 www.barrygrant.com
	Century Truck Caps Cargo Cover—Now Available for 2009 F-150s and Dodge Rams Century Truck Caps, a division of the Truck Accessories Group LLC, announces the immediate availability of the 2009 cargo cover for the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram 1500 series. Standard features include a center-mounted automotive painted handle, rotary latches and reliable locking rods. Century Truck Caps 800/828-2277 www.centurycaps.com
	Cooper Bussmann Marine-Rated High-Amp Circuit Breaker Specifically designed to provide high circuit protection in the most demanding environments, both the new Cooper Bussmann marine-rated high-amp circuit breaker with a switch function and marine-rated battery fuse offer ignition protection per SAE J1117. These two new product lines have been added to the company’s existing line of high-power circuit protection products available to manufacturers of trucks, buses and off-road vehicles; boat owners; marinas; and boat manufacturers. Cooper Bussmann 636/527-3877 www.cooperbussmann.com
	Carriage Works Dodge Challenger Bolt-Over Billet Grille Carriage Works is proud to announce a bolt-over billet grille for the new Dodge Challenger. These grilles are available separately and install in 30 minutes or less using simple hand tools—a quick and easy way to change the look of this hot new musclecar. Carriage Works 816/966-1405 www.cwgrilles.com
	DiamondBack Truck Covers New Dealer-Direct Program DiamondBack Truck Covers, in order to provide lower costs and higher dealer margins, recently announced that it will begin shipping product directly to dealers nationwide. The change enables dealers to purchase products at a lower cost, ensures direct-from-manufacturer support and introduces new MAP pricing (providing higher margins). DiamondBack will also begin offering dealers the opportunity to join its new preferred dealer program. This new status will provide dealers with exclusive territories for online promotion and sales leads in addition to many benefits, such as direct marketing support. DiamondBack Truck Covers 800/935-4002 www.diamondbackcovers.com
	Lord Corp. Fusor Double-Sided OEM Tapes Lord Corp., maker of Fusor automotive repair adhesives, has announced its latest body shop special: the Lord Fusor double-sided OEM tapes promotional kit. While supplies last, the kit will be offered for $55.27, a 35% discount off the original price. Each kit contains one roll of the following: Fusor 160 (3-inch), Fusor 181 (1/2-inch) and Fusor 190 (1/2-inch). Lord Corp. 877/ASK-LORD www.lord.com/fusor
	MBRPinc. Five-Inch Stainless Performance Exhaust Systems MBRPinc. has now released its long awaited 5-inch stainless performance exhaust systems for Chevy/GMC, Ford and Dodge diesel pickups. Crafted from T409 stainless steel, these monster-size pipes deliver a deep and distinctive exhaust note and reduced EGTs (exhaust gas temperatures). MBRPinc. 888/636-7223 www.mbrp.com
	Original Equipment Reproduction Factory-Style GTA Alloy Wheels Original Equipment Reproduction’s (OER) new original 16x8-inch Firebird Diamond Spoke GTA wheels are now available. Each wheel features a machine-finished rim in either black or gold spokes, and OER keeps loyal to the original ’88–’92 factory-model wheels with a one-piece cast design. Available with zero offset or 16mm offset, each wheel comes prepackaged in an OER box. Original Equipment Reproduction (Distributed by Classic Industries) 714/847-6887 www.oerparts.com
	Predator Motor Corp. New Dealerships for X-18 Intimidator Predator Motor Corp. is pleased to announce the addition of two new dealerships for its X-18 Intimidator—an affordable, fully loaded pre-runner/sandrail/dune buggy/dual sport vehicle. For videos of the X-18 and more detailed information, plus all of the X-18 dealer locations, please visit our website. Predator Motor Corp. 951/259-3339 www.predator-offroad.com
	Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) HD Front Bumper System Rugged Ridge is proud to unveil the new XHD front bumper system for ’76–’09 Jeep CJ/Wranglers. According to the company, the unit is the most advanced, toughest, flexible bumper system ever created. The modular bumper base allows you to pick and choose components to build the exact bumper of your choice. The XHD bumper bases are available with an integrated winch mount or standard light mount, and each base includes foglight and D-ring mounting locations. Rugged Ridge (A Division of OMIX-ADA) 770/614-6101 www.omix-ada.com